KINGS MOUNTAIN — The holiday cheer is making its rounds across Cleveland County, even in The Gateway City.

Kings Mountain kicked off the holiday season Nov. 20 with its annual tree lighting. Mayor Rick Murphrey joined the festivities, reading a book to local children. The festivities will revisit downtown with the city’s annual Christmas Parade set for Saturday. More than 100 entries are part of the event, from Kings Mountain High School’s Marching Band to a “Ghostbusters” themed Cadillac ambulance.

But the joy spreads beyond downtown.

The Kings Mountain Historical Museum invites all to meet Civil War re-enactors Saturday. The museum plans to host more events throughout December from candlelight tours and even visits from Santa Claus and his helpers.

Ellis Noell, director of special events for the city, said planning Christmas season events take at least a year.

“We’re excited about the holidays. We’re working together to show off our community and its spirit,” he said.

Athletes can take their chances at the Jingle Bell Rockin’ Run on Saturday morning.

The Southern Arts Society Inc. will bring art to the holidays, displaying handmade pieces from local artists. Patrons can buy the perfect gift with choices from ornaments, wood works and paintings.

-More than 100 entries signed up including Santa Claus in the Fire Truck Express, a “Ghost Busters” white Cadillac ambulance and the Kings Mountain High School Marching Band. The Marine Corp League NC Foothills Detachment 1164, dignitaries and local dance groups will be in the parade-Veterans are welcomed to ride in the Marine transport truck in the parade-Special appearance by two-time Olympian Dremiel “Bam”Byers.

All are welcomed to a luncheon from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. to meet Byers at the new location of 238 Cherokee Grill (220 South Railroad Avenue)

Jingle Bell Rockin’ Run

When : Saturday

Where : Meet at the Gazebo at Patriots Park

Time : Race starts at 10 a.m.

-Run includes a 10K, 5K and a two-mile run for grade school children

-Registration and information can be found at www.clevelandcoymca.org, sponsored by the Kings Mountain Family YMCA

Cost : Admission is free. Donations are accepted to support the museum

Model Train Display

When : Through Jan. 5-Annual model train display along with the exhibit “Toys, Games and Trains.” Exhibit features a model railroad display by the Piedmont “S” Gaugers, along with antique toys and games

Christmas at the KMHM

When : Saturday

-Activities in the Museum Commons with the 38th NC Regiment, Civil War re-enactors, spinning demonstrations by Lynn Eskridge and Victoria Johansson and Scherenschnitte, the historic German art of paper-cutting demonstrations by Linda Bell.

-Museum will re-open at 5:30 - 8:30pm after the parade for candlelight tours of the Robert Barber House.

-The Toys, Games and Trains exhibit and model railway will be open for visitors

Santa’s Fire Truck Express

When : Friday, Dec. 14, starts at 9 a.m., at various daycare centers

Saturday, Dec. 15, from 1-3 p.m., at the Kings Mountain Historical Museum at the train exhibit

-Santa and helpers will be visiting 1- 3 p.m. on Saturday, Dec.15. Stop by with a list, and visit the Museum’s gift shop.

-Old Salem Cookies and Cheese Stars are back and will be available at the Museum